Concentrate on schoolwork, developing skills – Coach Harper

The Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC) August Holiday Clinic concluded on Friday with eight participants receiving awards for their exceptional display during the camp, while all other participants as well as the awardees were presented with certificates to recognize their attendance throughout the two weeks.
Jason Camacho, a 16-year batsman who is also a quite good bowler was the most stupendous talent on show while leg spinning all-rounder Wayne Bollers was the best under-15 player and Shiloh Adams received the top honours for the under 13s. Best all-rounder 17 years and under went to Jeremiah Scott, Chad Shivinton won best bowler accolade for the u-15s, Nehemiah Singh and Malachi Barrington were the other awardees for under15s and 13s respectively. While Kishawn Sannie won most improved player and Jamal Michael most disciplined player.
A press release for the Club stated that Award recipients received bats, gloves, cricket pads and autographed tee-shirts compliments of the sponsors.
Speaking at the closing, MSC President Winston Semple extended his gratitude to all who collaborated with the club to help to make the Camp a success. He also thanked the parents for choosing MSC to assist in their children’s development while encouraging them to participate in the club’s weekly youth programme.
Facilitator of the camp, Mark Harper said he was immensely satisfied that there was such an overwhelming response of over 50 participants attending the camp. He continued by stating it was both enjoyable and challenging since they (coaches) were able to impart to the young and upcoming crickets much knowledge as possible within the framework of the game.
Most importantly he encouraged the children to concentrate on their school work and develop their skills since the game has a lot to offer, while he urged their parents to encourage them to play and develop the sport.
There were also other significant figures making oral presentations including GCA President Roger Harper, Manager of the National Blind team Terry Pemberton and longest serving President of MSC Claude Raphael. Club secretary Adrian Smith was master of ceremonies.
Other than former national player and coach, Mark Harper there were other established coaches who imparted their knowledge on the young brigade over the packed two-week period.
The aims of the programme were: to provide a variety of fun and enjoyable activities which are expected to provide immense pleasure and satisfaction, while teaching the basic skills of the game; to develop hand-eye co-ordination, sharpen reflexes, agility and flexibility, balance and speed; to teach the rules of the game by step-by-step instructions; to develop life skills, such as self-confidence and self-discipline; to build and improve skills and athletic capabilities.
Children were also taught the basics of the game through playing a variety of games that cover all facets of cricket. There were also games designed for small groups to ensure that all children get a go, and that they could have test, learn and practice skills as they go. There were also matches during the programme to test the skills, confidence and mental capabilities of players.
Apart from the coaches several national players and prominent individuals lectured to the individual on their social development.
In general the clinic was a successful one that had the necessary requirements to nurture cricketers for the future. There were also several participants who are new to cricket while some came from other clubs to enhance their abilities.
The camp was supported by Noble House Seafood, Winston Semple, Kings Jewellery World, Arron Fraser, Andrew DeAbreu, Sherwood Lowe, Dr. Joseph, Regal Stationery Centre and Regal Sports, Lloyd Dubblin, Brans Security, Gordon Gilhuys, Orin Forde, Shawn Holder, Sean Devers, Leading Edge Sports, Emily Dodson, Atlantic Mining Supply, General Industrial Supplies, Teshana Cox, Anita Lane, Wilbur Security, Paul Castello, Outar, Persaud, Prashad, Keith Lowenfield, Roger Phillips, Boston, Ivor Wharton, Star Party Rentals, Green Ice Taxi, Ray Lall, Erron Lall, Ramroop, Ramesh Seecharran, Sita Hassan, Roderick King, Mark Harper, Reon King and Derick John.